In Loving Memory...

Jim Wheeler

James Paul Wheeler 1934 ~ 2006 Jim (Jimmy) Wheeler returned to his Father in Heaven on Wednesday, November 22, 2006 in Salt Lake City. He died of respiratory failure associated with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). He was born to Paul L. Wheeler and Elaine W. Wheeler on June 30, 1934. Jim grew up in Ogden, Utah where he graduated from Weber State University and met his future wife, Barbara Roberts. They have been married 51 years. He graduated from the University of Utah with a Masters in Social Work and worked for the Utah State Division of Children and Family Services for 25 years, mostly in administrative positions, serving as State Director prior to retirement. Jim loved the profession of social work, was a leader in the field and made a significant impact in many people's lives. Jim was a member of the LDS Church, where he held many positions. Jim and his wife fulfilled a part time service mission with LDS Family Services. He had a deep and solid testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ and we are sure his Father in Heaven is now welcoming him with a "job well done." Jim's philosophy of life was one of "harmony," which led to his passion for Barbershop singing. As an outstanding tenor, he was a member of the Beehive Statesmen Barbershop chorus for over 50 years. He sang in several quartets beginning with the "Lake Shore Four," the "Salt Flats" international senior champions, "One More Time," and finally with "Senior Class Reunion." He traveled extensively, entertaining audiences nationwide. He completed an International USO Tour in the 1960s with the Salt Flats, entertaining American Troops, many in hospitals in Asia. Jim loved to play tennis, golf, ski, fish, bike, run and travel. He loved nature, especially sunsets, and enjoyed many camping trips. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; daughters, Wendy Merrill, Jodi (Brian) Bailey; and son, Todd; ten grandchildren and his sister, Carol Goddard. Jim was an outstanding husband, father, brother and friend. He will be greatly missed. Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 27, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. at the Heughs Canyon Ward, 6301 South 2300 East, Salt Lake City. Friends may call at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary on Sunday from 6 to 7 p.m., and one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Harmony Foundation International Inc., 225 W. Washington Street, #2330, Chicago, IL 60606 or the ALS Association (888) 949-2577. Keep the whole world singing!

Published in the Deseret News on 11/24/2006.